I am trying to go back beyond my great great grandfather, James Hale born Oct. 12, 1811 died Nov. 9, 1885 in Maryland.

Question

My great granfather was John Henry Hale of Baltimore County, Maryland. His father was James Hale  born Oct. 12, 1811  died Nov. 9 , 1885, also of Baltimore County , Maryland.  I can't find a connection back any futher than James.  He may be a desendant of Nicholas Hale of Baltimore, but I can't find information connecting the two through Nicholas' grand children.  Any help??

Answer 1

The first thing I'd check -- if you can find James in the 1880 census, that should say where his parents were born.  It's not always accurate, but it can provide a clue.

Second -- have you found James in the 1850 census?  How about 1840? Were there any other Hales listed near him?

Third -- what were the names of his children, especially his eldest son?

Comments

That's an excellent answer John. Gave me some help on finding some recourse when you wrote on this subject.